The Eating Disorders Coalition

The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action is a cooperative of professional and advocacy-based organizations committed to federal advocacy on behalf of people with eating disorders, their families, and professionals working with these populations.

WHAT IS OUR MISSION?

To advance the federal recognition of Eating Disorders as a public health priority.

WHAT ARE OUR GOALS?

With more focused attention on educating and working with Congress we can effectively influence federal policy.
Our specific objectives are:

-To raise awareness among policy makers and the public at large about the serious health risk posed by eating disorders.

-To promote federal support for improved access to care. To increase resources for research, education, prevention, and improved training.

-To increase funding and support for scientific research on the causes, prevention, and treatment of eating disorder.

-To promote initiatives that support the healthy development of children.

-To mobilize concerned citizens to advocate on behalf of people with eating disorders, their families, and professionals working with these populations.

HOW ARE WE ACHIEVING THESE GOALS

-Educating members of Congress:
We will create educational materials and briefing sheets that summarize the research and outline the problems on eating disorders and meet with Members of Congress and people in federal agencies. We are creating a Family Action Council where a family from each state and the District of Columbia will advocated for improved policies.

-Surveying past and current efforts:
We have collected data and written summary reports of what federal agencies and Congress have done to address the problem of eating disorders.

-Raising visibility:
We have conducted and are currently organizing Congressional events to bring increased attention to and awareness of eating disorders as a policy issue. Our first such event was a Congressional briefing titled "Fighting for treatment, fighting for life."

-Broadening our reach:
We have created a web-site with information on eating disorders, for members of Congress, their staffs, and the general public.

-Advocacy:
We are working to promote policies that eliminate the problems facing people with eating disorders, and that may prevent further people from developing eating disorders.

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED???